The Black Gangster Disciples are originally a Chicago gang. Their founder was David "King David" Barksdale and they considered themselves a "Nation" (BGDN) not a gang. The Black Gangster Disciples came from two different organizations that combined forces, the Black Disciples and the Gangster Disciples. The President was David Barksdale and Vice President was Larry Hoover. For that reason they use the 6 pointed star, for "King David", not because they are Jewish. After Barksdale’s death in 1974 a struggle for power between Hoover and Jerome "King Shorty" Freeman, caused the BGDN to break up in the early 1980s, and back to the Gangster Disciples, Black Disciples, and Black Gangsters, aka "Triple L’s or New Breed" were "Boonie" Black’s group that stood for "Love, Life, and Loyalty". Hoover expanded the GD's and they spread even greater with "Growth & Development" and 21st Century VOTE. GD’s are the biggest faction. Outside of Chicago some gangs will still go by the old name of BGD.
There was an alignment of Chicago gangs inside jail and prison during the 1960’s, Black P-Stones, Vicelords, and Latin Kings became "People" with their allies. BGD’s became "Folks" with their allies. They study their history and other belief systems which are known as "Knowledge" or "Literature". Some common sayings are "All is One", "All for One, One for All", and "Folk before Family." They will use the pitchforks as one of their symbols and a horned heart with wings and a devil's tail. Also, sometimes a 3-point crown. In theory, they are supposed to do everything to the right side, but this does not always hold true. Their colors are blue and black. They will have political sub-groups such as "Brothers of the Struggle" (BOS). Members who choose not to participate in a gang activity are subject to disciplinary action or "violations." Violations can result in punishment from push-ups, to beatings, or even death.
GPS also teaches about Hispanic gangs, Asian gangs, White Supremacists, and other Security Threat Groups. We have taught gang classes to many groups, including police, corrections, probation and parole officers, juvenile workers, schools, Job Corps, church groups, etc. if you are interested in our services. We look forward to hearing from you! Take care out there!
Gabe Morales
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Author/Trainer/Gang Specialist
Owner-Gang Prevention Services
P.O.Box 98685
Des Moines, WA, 98198
DISCLAIMER: This website and book are my own and in no way, shape, or form do they represent the views of any department, agency, or employer, past, present, or future. Webpage Last Updated March 1, 2006